Vanderbilt Baseball Banquet

I'm not easily impressed and certainly no avid spectator sports fan, by any stretch of the imagination. But I have to say, Vanderbilt's baseball team, last year's SEC champions, has really caught my eye and wowed me and thousands of others like me. If there's a finer coach anywhere, in any sport than Tim Corbin, then please let me know.

Meanwhile at Saturday night's Dores' baseball banquet, Coach Corbin introduced his 2008 team with such personal flair, good humor and detailed knowledge of each member's individual talents and family names that it's hard to imagine he wasn't reading from index cards. But it was business-as-usual as Corbin pulled it all from his extraordinary memory bank and fastidious attention to detail.

I have a great idea, Tim Corbin should run for president. No really. He's respected, disciplined, mature, funny, smart, and insightful, on top of being one of the finest speakers I've ever listened to. Vanderbilt is most fortunate to have him heading its baseball program. He's a role model and prototype leader extraordinaire. Best wishes to him and all his players, as they begin their 2008 season soon.

Coach Tim Corbin.

Former football great Jamie O'Rourke with VU baseball senior and left fielder Parker Hanks were at our table. We had lots of laughs.

Coach Corbin Quote: "Parker is the epitome of what a grinder is. He's hardnosed, tough, inspirational, and gets the most out of his ability. Because of his athleticism, he gives us many chances to play him."

Everybody loves Pedro Alvarez.

Coach Corbin Quote: "I think he's the best third baseman in the country. He might be the best player in the country. He flashes five tools. He runs very well. He is a great teammate and cares about other people which goes a long way when you're talking about leadership."